A recent commentary criticizes Portuguese political leaders for what it perceives as misplaced priorities. The article draws a parallel between the Ministry of Health, Parliament, the Government, and politicians who publicly support the national football team, framing them as characters representing “the good, the bad, and the ugly.” Specifically, it highlights legislation concerning healthcare workers (“tarefeiros”) as an area where the Ministry of Health has fallen short. The author suggests the government is more focused on the success of the national football team than on addressing critical issues within the healthcare system. This perceived disinterest is characterized as a form of superficial patriotism. The piece implies a disconnect between public displays of national pride and concrete action to support essential services like healthcare. The criticism centers on a perceived lack of genuine concern for citizens’ well-being amidst a focus on popular, but ultimately less vital, national pastimes.